February 24, 2007

Telescoping Pet Ramp -- Review

Do your dogs love to ride in the car? Our 3 year old Golden Retrievers do, and if too many sunny afternoons go by without an outing, they let us know. So we grab our gear and head for the SUV. We actually bought the SUV for this very reason, since two 80+ pound pooches couldn't lie down in the back of our 4 door. Quandry--they couldn't or wouldn't climb in. Jumping out is no problem for them, although we must protect against injury upon impact to one of their front legs, especially on parking lot asphalt.

Solution: the Telescoping Pet Ramp. This ramp has been invaluable. One of our girls does have to be coaxed in sometimes, but normally they trot right in and out of the car.

Orvis recommends this ramp to safely access vehicles, furniture, vet/grooming tables, swimming pools, and more. It adjusts from 39" to 70". It can be fully extended for trucks or SUVs, or shortened to allow the dog access to a bed or couch. The durable, nonslip carpeted surface with high sidewalls guarantees even a skittish dog comfort and sure footing. Rubber feet on top and bottom provide firm grip.

Portable and lightweight, it only weighs 20 lbs and has an easy-carry handle. When traveling, we store it on the exterior roof rack, secured by bungee cords. More times than I wish to admit, we have driven off cluelessly, forgetting to attach the cords, only to hear the ramp whip off and crash to the road. Since the Telescoping Pet Ramp is made from fiber-glass reinforced ABS material--it has survived every abuse intact. It can also be easily secured in the back of the vehicle, and is easily stored in the home.

Orvis and Amazon.

Read More in: Dogs | Ramps & Steps | Travel